Boeing develops face shields using Solvay’s high-performance thermoplastic film

Photo Credit: Solvay

In response to the need by medical professionals for protective equipment to combat COVID-19, Belgian chemical company Solvay is supplying high-performance, medical-grade transparent film to Boeing for its production of face shields.

In a press release, Solvay said Boeing approached it due to its experience in the use of advanced composite and adhesive materials on multiple commercial and defense programs.

Manufactured by Solvay’s Ajedium films business, the thermoplastic film will be used by Boeing in the production of thousands of face shields critically needed by hospitals and medical workers in the U.S. to protect them from the COVID-19 virus. The film will be manufactured using Solvay’s medical-grade Radel PPSU or Udel PSU, two transparent specialty polymers widely used for medical devices because of their ability to be sterilized and withstand aggressive disinfectants.

“We are honoured to bring our product expertise to our customers in this time of crisis,” said Jeff Hrivnak, healthcare global business development manager for Solvay Specialty Polymers. “Boeing is rising to the occasion by providing more durable, face shields now in critical demand for our heroic healthcare workers, and we are proud to help make that possible.”